Method for bonding simulated or similar architectural elements together in a configuration designed to pass hurricane rated testing for glazing applications

ABSTRACT

The objective of the invention is to allow the manufacturing of simulated glass block window systems that will pass hurricane rated testing such as that required by Dade and Broward county Florida. This process will allow the end user to select a wide variety of core types including but not limited glass, plastic, insulated glass laminated glass, sound control glass, impact and reflective films, and Low-E solar control coatings.

The present invention relates to a method for bonding simulated or similar architectural elements together in a configuration designed to pass hurricane rated testing for glazing applications. The invention is comprised of the following components:

(1) Simulated glass (plastic) blocks or similar architectural elements.

(2) The core substrate glass or plastic or both.

(3) The clear non-hydroscopic bonding adhesive.

(4) Special edge sealant for plastic substrates.

The components, core substrate and surface applied blocks, combine to make a decorative simulated glass block window that can be configured to provide solar control, sound control, in a verity of colors and shapes, while still passing stringent hurricane testing.

The different structures are achieved by varying the core substrate. The materials are typically (but not limited to) polycarbonate, acrylic, PETG sheet and the like. Glass materials can be laminated, insulated, Low-E coated, sound control and the like. These core materials can be used be used in a variety of combinations to achieve the requirements of the end user.

Because this method provides for a variety of different core substrates, the end product may be configured to be hurricane resistant, sound rated, insulated, solar control or combinations of all of these elements. 

1. A method for bonding simulated or similar architectural elements together in a configuration designed to pass hurricane rated testing for glazing applications. The simulated glass blocks or similar architectural elements are attached to the surface of a hurricane rated glass or plastic substrate core utilizing a clear bonding adhesive that is non-hydroscopic and provides a permanent bond to the core. 